In a letter dated 21/9, the prime minister praised Duc Phuc's effort, powerful vocals, and emotional performance at Intervision, held in Moscow, Russia. According to the prime minister, the singer "breathed life into the song Phu Dong Thien Vuong, inspired by the poem Tre Viet Nam, recounting the story of the Vietnamese people's strength in unity, courage, and aspiration to rise".
The prime minister commended Vietnam's participation in the international music competition, revived after a 40-year hiatus, for "conveying a message of unity and integration, allowing 'music to transcend all differences and connect people worldwide'". The prime minister believes this victory will motivate Duc Phuc to further nurture his passion and inspire young people to develop their talents and creativity, contributing to Vietnam's music scene and promoting Vietnamese culture globally.
Currently in Russia following the finale, Duc Phuc expressed his happiness upon reading the congratulatory letter. "I consider this a source of encouragement and motivation to be more serious and creative in my profession, contributing to our nation's music," the singer said.
The performance of Phu Dong Thien Vuong (composed by Ho Hoai Anh) celebrates national pride, unity, and the aspiration to rise. The arrangement blends traditional and contemporary elements, creating a majestic atmosphere. Duc Phuc incorporated various props on stage, including bamboo and conical hats.
The performance became a sensation with international and domestic media, attracting millions of views on digital platforms and garnering praise from experts.
Poet Nguyen Duy, the author of Tre Viet Nam, said he was "moved to tears" when the opening verses of his poem were incorporated into the performance. "This is a success for Duc Phuc, for Ho Hoai Anh, and a source of pride for me. The poem was published over half a century ago but is still remembered, mentioned, and explored by young people. I believe art now needs to combine the old and the new, embracing national identity while remaining integrated with the world," he said.
He was even more delighted that the performance resonated in Russia, a country he holds dear. In 1989, the poet published the collection Duong Xa, comprising works about Russia. Tre Viet Nam was written in 1969 when the 21-year-old poet was a private in the signal corps. Having served for three years, he longed for the bamboo groves and riverbanks of his hometown Vu village (Do Len, Ha Trung, Thanh Hoa). He penned the first verses in a bunker beneath a stand of old bamboo, with roots encroaching upon his head. He recalled, "I wrote whatever came to mind, without any technique, but it resonated with many readers who memorized and remembered it."
Musician Huy Tuan considers Duc Phuc's victory a milestone for popular music, introducing international friends to elements marked "Made in Vietnam." He commented, "Duc Phuc ascended through his talent and Vietnamese music." Singer Viet Hoan remarked, "He has achieved something wonderful for our nation's music, bringing it to the world stage."
Duc Phuc gave numerous interviews to Russian media after winning the championship. The singer announced he would donate a portion of the nearly 9.5 billion VND prize money to charity.
He accepted the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism's invitation to participate in the program. Deputy Minister Ta Quang Dong stated that Duc Phuc met the criteria for selecting singers, including extensive stage experience, the ability to choose songs that capture international music trends, impressive artistic achievements, and an image that inspires the public, especially young people.
Intervision, originally known as the Intervision Song Contest, was initiated by the International Radio and Television Organisation (OIRT). In its early years (1965-1968), the competition took place in Czechoslovakian cities like Prague, Bratislava, and Karlovy Vary. From 1977 to 1980, Intervision was revived in Sopot, Poland, replacing the Sopot International Song Festival. After 1980, the competition was discontinued.
Returning after over 40 years, the competition attracted contestants from Cuba, Kyrgyzstan, China, Egypt, the US, Kenya, Kazakhstan, UAE, Russia, Brazil, Tajikistan, Qatar, Madagascar, Saudi Arabia, Colombia, Ethiopia, Venezuela, Serbia, South Africa, Belarus, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam.
Nguyen Duc Phuc, 28, from Hanoi, won The Voice of Vietnam in 2015 under the mentorship of My Tam. His hits include Anh Nang Cua Anh, Ta Con Yeu Nhau, Con Yeu Dau Ai Roi Di, Hon Ca Yeu, Nguoi Oi Nguoi O Dung Ve, and Ngay Dau Sau Chia Tay. In 2024, Duc Phuc gained attention participating in the first season of Anh Trai Say Hi, reaching the final Best Five.
Tan Cao - Ha Thu
